What first drew me to LaSalle was its global reputation as a successful real estate investor. I knew the Australian team was a tight knit group with a strong track record, and they were known as a practical, on the ground investor focused on real estate fundamentals.
Prior to joining LaSalle, I worked with the Real Assets team at a global bank. In this role, I provided coverage for various private equity groups in infrastructure and real estate, covering renewables, oil and gas, public private infrastructure, mining, and transport sectors. LaSalle was a client of the bank and well known to me. My first direct interaction with the Australian and Asia Pacific team at LaSalle occurred in 2021 when they were in the process of acquiring an industrial asset in Sydney.
My role primarily involves securing external debt for acquisition and refinancing purposes, as well as assisting with direct real estate acquisitions in Australia on behalf of clients and LaSalle funds. Over the past year, I have also been involved in the development of new products in the Australian market.
Since joining, I have progressed from Associate to Manager last year, and more recently this year to Vice President. I’ve seen a large shift in the macro environment, notably higher interest rates, declining valuations, and a challenging capital markets outlook. This has placed pressure on capital stacks and one of my main responsibilities has been to manage these positions within the existing portfolio, working closely alongside Australian and APAC teams.
On the acquisitions front, although more subdued, the team has been actively reviewing and pursing predominantly opportunistic transactions across all sectors, but with a particular focus on industrial and living strategies.
What first drew me to LaSalle was its global reputation as a successful real estate investor. I knew the Australian team was a tight knit group with a strong track record, and they were known as a practical, on the ground investor focused on real estate fundamentals.
My favorite aspect of the job is that at its heart, LaSalle is an entrepreneurial business, and it needs to be. We need think creatively and be smart, but be prudent in finding ways to generate performance. We also need to have ‘an ear to the ground’ and in a position to act quickly and with conviction. LaSalle is structured in a way that fosters this environment. You get access to senior decision makers, and you are encouraged to present and progress ideas. I like that real estate is a people business, driven by relationships, track records and experience. I feel lucky to be part of a company that values these qualities.
I’ve also had the opportunity to represent LaSalle on the Property Council of Australia’s National Real Estate Capital Markets Committee, which has been a great experience.
I am grateful for the experience, responsibilities and exposure my role has given me so far. Regarding what’s next, it’s anyone’s guess, but I know LaSalle offers several exciting potential career paths. I see big opportunities for the business going forward and believe there is potential to make a real impact here.
I like all things outdoors. I’m a big sailor – it’s a fantastic tactical and competitive team sport that I enjoy on evenings and weekends when time permits! We are lucky in Australia, with natural beauty and Sydney Harbour on the doorstep.
Jacob’s career path
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